Nintendo Switch released in March 2017 and has been one of the most successful devices for the Japanese game company with over 55 million units sold. Switch is quite the solid performer, but like with all electronics, it is susceptible to crashing, becoming unresponsive or unusual lag.
In situations like these, a restart can often solve any problems with the backend, but in some cases, a force restart may be required. Read this guide to learn how to restart your Switch if it shows any erratic behaviour.
To restart a Nintendo Switch you will need to have the tablet portion of the console within reach since there is no way to do this with just the Joy-Cons or Pro Controller.
Also read: How to shut down and hard reset your iPhone, iPad or iPod?
How to restart your Nintendo Switch?
Step 1: Hold down the power button at the left-top of the device for about 5 seconds.
Step 2: In the Power Menu that is now displayed, choose Power Options.
Step 3: Navigate to Restart and press A.
Also read: How to get Overwatch in CSGO? Everything you need to know
How to force restart your Nintendo Switch?
A force restart/soft reset is a measure you should use only in the event that your system has become unresponsive. Often games or applications with heavy loads can cause such unusual behaviour. This method should always be your last resort since it is not recommended to perform a force restart often.
Hence, before you force restart your Switch we recommend trying the methods mentioned below.
- Press the Home Button: As mentioned earlier, in most cases, rather than your Switch being the culprit, it could be a game/application that is in use. Pressing the Home Button will take you to the main screen from where you can proceed to close the affected game/application.
- Dock/Undock the Nintendo Switch: This method provides your Switch with a refresh as it transitions from a higher power state (docked) to a lower one (undocked) or vice-versa and can result in your device becoming responsive again.
If the methods listed above did not help; follow the steps mentioned below to force restart your Switch.
Step 1: Press and hold the power button at the left-top of the console for about 15 seconds.
Step 2: After the screen turns off, wait for 5 seconds and press the power button again.
